How to Measure Elastic Into Cuffs

Repair loose cuffs by adding new elastic.

You do not have to put up with loose cuffs on clothes, such as jackets or sweat pants. Instead, add new life to stretched-out cuffs by putting fresh elastic into them. The trick to measuring new elastic for cuffs is figuring out how to get the right amount. If you measure and cut the elastic too long, the cuffs can still be too loose. If you cut the elastic too short, the cuffs can be uncomfortably tight.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Scissors
• Large safety pin or bodkin
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Measure around your ankles or wrists, depending on where the cuffs will rest on your body when you wear the garment.

2. Add 1 inch to the length if the garment is made of heavy material, such as a jacket or light coat. If the garment is medium weight you do not need to add anything. If the garment is very thick, like a parka, add 1 1/2 inches.

3. Cut the elastic to the length you calculated, using scissors.

4. Hook a safety pin or bodkin into the end of the elastic. Cut a few threads along the cuff seam and slide the elastic into the cuff. Do not let the other end go into the opening.

5. Overlap the elastic ends 1/2 inch. The overlap will be the same no matter how much you added to the length; because the thickness of the fabric takes up the slack.

6. Sew the overlapped ends together, using a sewing machine. Use a straight stitch on the sewing machine to close the opening by sewing over the original seam.

References

• Sew-lutions: Elastic: The Notion That Gives
• Craft and Fabric Links: Elastic Instructions: Measuring
• Dana Made It: Puffed Sleeve: Cuffs